INDOT pre-treats highways with salt brine to combat ice

CRAWFORDSVILLE -- A winter storm fronted by freezing rain was expected to impact highways statewide beginning overnight, making Friday morning's commute challenging.

Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) salt trucks have been out in force in a continuing effort to prevent snow and ice from accumulating on lanes, and to melt any ice that may form, INDOT spokes-man Debbie Calder of the Crawfordsville District said.

INDOT will continue to monitor multiple developing forecasts, as well as a statewide network of road and bridge pavement sensors, to deploy the needed personnel, equipment and materials ahead of any predicted winter weather.

State highways and interstates were being pre-treated with brine to help prevent snow and ice from accumulating on bridges, overpasses and some mainline sections prior to any rain washing away the salt coating. INDOT trucks will be in place as the weather front approaches, continuing to apply salt as the freezing rain falls.

Motorists are urged to drive with extreme care. INDOT advised commuters to leave early Friday morning, allowing sufficient time to reach their destination safely.

If possible, motorists should postpone their trip until after the morning rush hour as weather conditions are expected to moderate significantly later in the day.

Drivers can monitor road conditions and traffic alerts across the state at any time by phone or web.

Visit www.Traffic-Wise.IN.gov or dial toll-free 800-261-ROAD (7623) for INDOT's TrafficWise Traveler Information Service.